Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Independent Reconfiguration Panel

19 November 2020 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Siobhain McDonagh Lab Mitcham and Morden

NHS

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Siobhain McDonagh raised concerns about independent reconfiguration panel in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Ms McDonagh criticised the NHS's "Improving Healthcare Together" programme for downgrading Epsom and St Helier Hospitals.
  • Mr Argar defended the decision, citing clinical evidence and patient choice as the basis for the changes.
  • The minister acknowledged concerns and highlighted measures to address transport and car parking issues.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Siobhain McDonagh Lab Mitcham and Morden

Ms McDonagh criticised the NHS's 'Improving Healthcare Together' programme, which proposes to downgrade both Epsom Hospital and St Helier Hospital by moving all acute services south to Belmont. She argued that this decision cannot be regarded as independent due to the involvement of Professor Sir Norman Williams, who could not be seen as impartial given his connection with St George's Hospital. The plans propose turning St Helier into a walk-in centre, losing its A&E, maternity services and children’s beds. Ms McDonagh highlighted that these proposals would negatively impact deprived communities and BAME residents in her constituency, arguing the decision goes against Treasury guidance on value for money.

Other contributors (1)
  • Unspecified MP

    Agreed with Siobhain McDonagh's comments regarding the discriminatory assumption of home births and the impact on deprived communities.

Government Response

Edward Argar

Mr Argar acknowledged Ms McDonagh's concerns but defended the decision, stating that the proposed changes are based on clinical evidence and patient choice. He highlighted measures to address issues such as transport and bed numbers, including extending a hospital bus route and increasing car parking facilities. The minister emphasised that the Independent Reconfiguration Panel (IRP) was impartial in its advice despite Professor Sir Norman Williams' previous involvement with St George's Hospital. Mr Argar concluded by asserting that the process has been carried out fairly, independently and appropriately.

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